Kilimanjaro Trekking

Climb Kilimanjaro — A Grand Expedition

Ascend Africa's highest peak with Mawe African Ventures. Meticulously crafted expeditions across every established route, led by KPAP-endorsed mountain guides.

The Roof of Africa

5,895m. Seven routes. One unforgettable summit.

Embark on a grand expedition with Mawe African Ventures to conquer the legendary Mount Kilimanjaro. Our meticulously crafted trekking experience promises unparalleled adventure and breathtaking scenery as you ascend Africa's highest peak.

There are seven established routes to the summit at Uhuru Peak — one approaching from the north and six from the south. Each route has its own character, difficulty and success rate. Below we outline every option, our winners for each type of climber, and the six factors that should shape your choice.

Which Route Is Right For You?

Our winners by category

Highest Success Rate
Lemosho (7–8 days)

Excellent acclimatisation and an easier summit night.

Most Scenic
Lemosho Route

Spectacular vistas from every angle, approaching from the west.

Best for First-Timers
Marangu Route

Hut accommodation and a straightforward classic climb.

Most Challenging
Crater Camp Option

Less than 1% of climbers experience it — the ultimate adventure.

The Seven Routes

A complete guide to every path up the mountain

Lemosho Route
7 – 8 DaysFrom USD 3,150
Route 01

Lemosho Route

A remote western approach with dramatic gorges and sweeping views of west Kilimanjaro. Excellent acclimatisation and one of the highest summit success rates on the mountain.

Difficulty
Moderate
Scenery
Spectacular
Traffic
Moderate
Success Rate
Very High
  • Excellent 'walk high, sleep low' acclimatisation profile
  • Most scenic route with panoramic vistas in all directions
  • Fully catered wilderness camping
  • Summit via Barafu with an easier final approach
Machame Route
6 – 7 DaysFrom USD 2,850
Route 02

Machame Route

The Whiskey Route

The most popular route on Kilimanjaro. Traverses five diverse climatic zones with ascent and descent by different paths, offering a scenic and rewarding experience.

Difficulty
Moderate
Scenery
Stunning
Traffic
Busy
Success Rate
High
  • Highly recommended — strong summit success rate
  • Five distinct climatic zones in one climb
  • Ascent and descent via different trails
  • Fully catered mobile camping
Marangu Route
5 – 6 DaysFrom USD 2,750
Route 03

Marangu Route

The Coca-Cola Route

The oldest and only route with dormitory-style hut accommodation. The shortest path to the summit — perfect for trekkers who prefer sleeping under a roof instead of a tent.

Difficulty
Moderate
Scenery
Classic
Traffic
Busy
Success Rate
Lower
  • Hut accommodation — no camping required
  • Shortest itinerary to the summit
  • Ascent and descent on the same trail
  • Best suited for trekkers with limited days
Choosing Your Route

Six factors to weigh before you book

01

Acclimatisation

The golden rule at altitude is walk high, sleep low. Machame and Lemosho naturally follow this pattern, giving them the strongest acclimatisation profiles.

02

Difficulty of the Summit Night

Marangu reaches the crater rim opposite Uhuru Peak — two hours from the summit. Machame and Lemosho reach Stella Point, less than an hour from the top.

03

How Busy the Route Is

Traffic varies by season and day. Machame and Marangu are the busiest classics; Lemosho typically feels quieter for the first three days.

04

Accommodation

Marangu is the only route with huts. Lemosho and Machame use fully catered mobile camping with expedition-grade tents.

05

Safety

Every route we operate is safe when walked sensibly with experienced guides. Our KPAP-endorsed team monitors health twice daily on the mountain.

06

Success Rate

The 8-day Lemosho boasts the highest summit success rate of the routes we operate, followed by 7-day Machame.

When to Climb

The best months for a summit attempt

Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, but two dry windows offer the clearest views and the highest summit success rates. Group climbs run every week — our team will match you to the ideal departure for your chosen route.

Jan – Mar

Warmer, occasional afternoon showers, fewer crowds.

Jun – Oct

Peak dry season — clearest skies and highest success rates.

Apr – May

Long rains — not recommended for climbing.

Nov

Short rains — climbable between showers; expect wet afternoons.

Ready to stand on the roof of Africa?

Speak with our Kilimanjaro specialists. We'll help you choose the right route, the right season and the right team of guides and porters for a safe, ethical and unforgettable ascent.